Hooray for the EU! Perhaps unusual for UK farmers to be cheering on the work of the EU but steps to control speculation on commodity markets should be welcomed.
Speculation does not put money in farmer's pockets but rather in the pockets of the speculators - otherwise they wouldn't do it. It increases volatility in the market, puts millions into food poverty and weakens structures which should assist farmers in marketing their grain.
Whilst the organic sector does not have a futures market we are indirectly affected by it and the immaturity of the organic grain market and small volumes involved make it particularly susceptible to external influence. Stable prices providing farmers a sufficient return would help build confidence in the UK organic grain sector and allow the development we all need to see.
